2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,812 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Chrysler 1609 (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Chrysler 1609 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1980 Chrysler 1609 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1980 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 1980 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chrysler |
| Model | A | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1812 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2670 mm |
